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Rochester, NY, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $24: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Rochester, United States of America
to
Chicago, United States of America

How to Get from Rochester to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$24 by trainBest price
837 kmDistance
3h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Rochester to Chicago with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$38-326
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
11h  43m
Estimated price
$24-200
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 837 km
Duration: 3h 54m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  22m
Estimated price
$38-296
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  50m
Estimated price
$64-202
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  2m
Estimated price
$123-285
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  9m
Estimated price
$380-381
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Rochester to Chicago

The journey from Rochester to Chicago offers a shift from the serene ambiance of Lake Ontario to the vibrant hustle of a major metropolis, showcasing distinct cultural and culinary experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and attractions.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene.
Wicker Park
• Trendy with local boutiques and cafes.
• A lively arts and music culture.
The Loop
• Center of Chicago's business and cultural activities.
• Iconic architecture and top museums nearby.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Chicago experience.

The Art Institute of Chicago
Visiting early on weekdays offers fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Millennium Park
Mornings or late afternoons in spring and fall avoid peak tourist activity.
Navy Pier
Weekdays during the shoulder seasons provide a quieter, enjoyable experience.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters, making timing crucial for your visit. Spring and fall often offer the most pleasant weather, enhancing sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation

You won't want to miss deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, where the rich, buttery crust and generous layers of cheese create a culinary experience that stands apart from Rochester's more traditional pizza styles. The lively atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients add to the vibrant dining scene that Chicago is celebrated for.

Rochester - Chicago operators

Explore transport companies operating between Rochester and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Rochester (ROC) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$38-326

Plane from Rochester (ROC) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$3263-3264
Website
delta.com

Plane from Rochester (ROC) to Chicago Midway (MDW)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$382-3261

Plane from Rochester (ROC) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
4h 11m
Estimated price
$382-3262
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Rochester to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
11h 43m
Estimated price
$24-200
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Rochester Bus Stop to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
14h 50m
Estimated price
$64-202
Contact phone
+1 800-858-8555
Website
trailways.com

Bus from Rochester, NY to Buffalo, NY

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$24-382
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Rochester to Chicago

Average Duration
10h 9m
Estimated price
$380-381

Rochester to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Rochester and Chicago offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Rochester to Chicago! Enjoy the scenic 603-mile drive through the heart of America. 💰 The cost of this journey ranges from $100 to $160, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore Midwest charm. ⏱️ Take approximately 10 hours and 9 minutes to reach Chicago by car, filled with anticipation for the iconic cityscape and deep-dish pizza awaiting your arrival.
Average price
$100 - $160
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Rochester to Chicago on the Amtrak service departing twice daily. Enjoy approximately 11 hours and 43 minutes of travel time through the heartland of the United States. 🌆 Arrive at the bustling Chicago Union Station, a historic transportation hub dating back to 1925. Take in the iconic architecture and explore the vibrant city of Chicago, known for its diverse neighborhoods, delicious food, and world-class museums. 💰 Ticket prices for the Rochester to Chicago train range from $24 to $200, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Relax, sit back, and enjoy the convenience and comfort of rail travel on this exciting journey across states.
Departure Point
Rochester station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for this route, and they offer catering services that include Snack Bar options, serving light meals and beverages. Merchants on the train may also provide a selection of sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Ensure you check their menu before your trip for any seasonal offerings.
• Seating Options: The Amtrak Cardinal route offers different classes of seating. You can choose from Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class offers standard seating with reclining capability, while Business Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary beverages. First Class offers the most luxurious experience, with premium dining options and wider seats. Be sure to reserve your seats early as they can fill up quickly.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Chicago Union Station, take note that the station has luggage storage services available if you want to explore the city without your bags. They also have public restrooms. For navigating, follow the signs to the main exit, which leads you to the street level. For convenience, download the station map from their site prior to arrival to familiarize yourself with the layout.
🛫 Flying from Rochester Airport to Chicago Midway Airport is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 55 minutes. 🌆 Travelers can expect a flight duration of around 3 hours and 54 minutes when flying from Rochester to Chicago, with ticket prices ranging from $38 to $326, offering a range of options for various budgets.
Departure Point
Rochester Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Starting from Rochester travelers can take a 14-hour and 50-minute journey to Chicago by bus with transfers in Buffalo and Cleveland. 🌉 The route spans a distance of 639 miles with convenient transfers at each stop, offering a comfortable and scenic ride from upstate New York to the Midwest city of Chicago. 🎫 Pricing for this bus trip from Rochester to Chicago can range from $64 to $202, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to explore the vibrant city of Chicago from the northeast.
Departure Point
Rochester Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure you book your tickets in advance through Greyhound's website at greyhound.com to secure the best prices for multi-leg journeys, as prices can vary significantly from $64 to $202.
• During your layover in Buffalo, take the opportunity to grab a meal at the nearby Anchor Bar, famous for its Buffalo wings and located just a 5-minute walk from the bus station.
• Upon arriving at the Chicago Bus Station, be aware that it's located at 630 W Harrison St; if you need further transport, the CTA Blue Line is easily accessible from nearby, connecting you quickly to downtown Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Rochester to Chicago.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Rochester and Chicago is 520 miles. By train, it takes approximately 11 hours and 43 minutes to reach Chicago from Rochester. Another option is to take a train to Buffalo and then fly to Chicago Midway, which takes around 5 hours and 33 minutes. By car, the travel time is approximately 10 hours and 9 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 12 hours and 58 minutes. Alternatively, the quickest option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 44 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Rochester to Chicago is by train, with fares ranging from $24 to $200. Although it takes 11 hours and 43 minutes, it offers a more affordable option compared to other modes of transportation. However, if time is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 44 minutes, with prices ranging from $75 to $800.
The prices for train tickets between Rochester and Chicago can range from $24 to $200, depending on factors such as travel class and availability. On the other hand, bus tickets between Chicago and Rochester can vary from $34 to $137, with prices also influenced by factors such as the time of day and seat selection. It's advisable to check with different transportation providers and book in advance to secure the best possible fares.
To get from Rochester to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 603 miles and it usually takes around 10 hours and 9 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost of driving varies, but it typically ranges from $100 to $160, taking into account fuel and tolls.
To travel from Rochester to Chicago without a car, your best option is to take a train. This takes approximately 11 hours and 43 minutes and costs between $24 and $200. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes and costs between $75 and $800. If you are looking for a more affordable option, you can also take a bus, which takes about 12 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $30 and $140.
Yes, there is a direct link between Rochester and Chicago. Amtrak operates a direct train service that departs from Rochester and arrives at Chicago Union Station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 43 minutes. There is also an indirect option by bus, with services departing from Rochester and transferring in Ithaca before arriving in Chicago. This bus journey takes approximately 12 hours and 58 minutes, including transfers.
The flight from Rochester to Chicago typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. The price of a flight between the two cities can range from $78 to $756, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and seat class. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices to secure the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels available, you can certainly find one to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $58 per night, offering a range of affordable options for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly motels, you will find a suitable place to stay near Chicago.

Trips from Rochester

Trips to Chicago